Antibacterial (Single agent) (On the skin)

Introduction:

Treats skin infections. Silvadene® cream treats and prevents the infection of serious burns.

Brand Name(s):

Benzaclin, Bactroban, SSD AF, SSD, Evoclin, Clenia, Clindagel, Phisohex, Rosac Cream w/Sunscreens, Lazerformalyde, Cleocin T, Cortisporin, Plexion Sct, Rosanil, Akne-Mycin

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients. You should not use Silvadene® cream if you have had an allergic reaction to silver sulfadiazine or other sulfa drugs. Do not use Silvadene® cream on babies less than 2 months old, or if you are pregnant and near or at term.

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Ointment, Lotion, Gel/Jelly, Swab, Spray, Foam, Sponge, Liquid

  • This medicine should not be used in your eyes, inside your body, or over large areas of skin. If this medicine does get in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse it off right away.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Follow your doctor's instructions about how to clean and care for your wound while you are using this medicine.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Some forms of this medicine may contain alcohol. Do not use these medicines near a fire or if you are smoking.
  • Different forms of this medicine are used in different ways. Be sure you understand all the directions before you use them. Ask a pharmacist if you have any questions.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using cimetidine (Tagamet®), or a sulfa drug such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, Bactrim®, Cotrim®, or Septra®. Do not use any other medicines on the treated skin unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or any problems with your blood.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor. Call your doctor if you are using Bactroban® and your skin does not get better in 3 to 5 days.
  • In some cases, the long-term use of topical antibacterial medicines can cause a fungal infection. Tell your doctor if you notice new or increased pain, redness, or swelling on the treated skin.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Dark-colored urine, blood in the urine, or pale stools.
  • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or pain in your upper stomach.
  • Redness, burning, itching, or swelling in the area where the medicine is applied.
  • Unexplained fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Change in the color of your skin where the medicine is applied.
  • Headache.
  • Nausea.
  • Skin dryness.
  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
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